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Pronunciation

GWAHN-fa-seen

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antihypertensives, agents for attention deficit disorder

Pharmacologic Classification: alpha adrenergic agonists

Indications

BEERS REMS


Action

  • Stimulates CNS alpha2-adrenergic receptors, producing a decrease in sympathetic outflow to heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. Result is decreased BP and peripheral resistance, a slight decrease in heart rate, and no change in cardiac output. Mechanism of action in ADHD is unknown.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Lowering of BP in hypertension.
  • Increased attention span in ADHD.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Immediate-release is well absorbed (80%); extended-release has lower rate and extent of absorption ( absorption with high-fat meals).

Distribution: Appears to be widely distributed.

Metabolism/Excretion: 50% metabolized by the liver, 50% excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-Life: 17 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(antihypertensive effect)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO (single dose)unknown8–12 hr24 hr
PO (multiple doses)within 1 wk1–3 mounknown





Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: bradycardia, chest pain, hypotension, palpitations, rebound hypertension, syncope

EENT: tinnitus

GI: constipation, dry mouth, abdominal pain, nausea

GU: erectile dysfunction

Neuro: drowsiness, headache, weakness, depression, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, irritability

Resp: dyspnea

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Hypertension

ADHD

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Intuniv, Tenex

Canadian Brand Names

Intuniv XR